In Matadi, in Bas Congo province, more than 2,000 people celebrated the 27th International Day of Peace on September 20-21. The different activities marking this day were organized by MONUC’s Public Information section with the collaboration of “Service for Peace,” the town hall of Matadi and the Heaven Foundation.

In Kindu, capital of Maniema, the day was marked by a peace walk involving national and international MONUC staff, which took place from MONUC’s offices to Kindu’s Central Court. It was also an opportunity for the provincial government to officially underline their needs in order to strengthen peace throughout the province.

Equateur province celebrated the day with the motto – “Live in peace.” Close to six hundred students and local officials took part in activities organized on this occasion, during which the population were invited to promote the culture of peace.

Events included: a theater performance; debates along the theme of pacific resolution of conflict; and a football match between UN staff and Mbandaka University.

In Kisangani, capital of Oriental Province, the day was celebrated through a peace flag salute by a platoon of the MONUC Senegalese contingent.

Other events included: the laying of flowers in memory of all those that died for the peace in the world; the reading of messages of peace from Special Representative Alan Doss and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon; and a prize giving ceremony for winners of a peace poetry competition, organized by MONUC’s Public Information section.

MONUC’s Public Information section organized two further activities throughout the province: a sensitization day for peace aimed at youths in the township of Mangobo, with the provincial ambassador for peace Ms. Albertine Likoke, as well as a cultural evening in the Ngoma centre with students of the province and members of Radio Okapi.

In Goma in North Kivu, the day was commemorated on Saturday 19 September in the Red Cross offices. Approximately one hundred representatives from the population and local civil and military authorities debated the contribution of all sectors of society for the full restoration of peace in North Kivu after several years of conflict.

All recognized MONUC’s and the international community’s big contribution for the progressive return of security that currently prevails in the province.

In Walungu in South Kivu, MONUC’s Public Information section organized several events, including: a conference-debate with the local authorities and decisions makers on the theme: “Operation Kimia II, a priority for South Kivu.”

The head of MONUC Bukavu participated in the conference. There was also “Peace Cup” in Walungu stadium, followed by a sensitization session, where several artists participated. Activities also included the screening of documentaries on the military Operation “Kimia II”, sexual violence and human rights.

In Kinshasa, a marathon and other sports demonstrations are planned for Saturday 26 September next, in coordination with the Congolese Olympic Committee.